Medford City Council Blocks Pot Dispensaries

The Medford City Council effectively banned medical marijuana dispensaries in a recent vote, despite a new state law that will allow them next year. Local lawmakers unanimously approved expanding an existing city ordinance related to business licenses. The change now allows the city to deny or revoke a business license if the business is in violation of local, state or federal law.

Following the September 5 vote, the city revoked the business license for an existing dispensary in a Medford shopping center. The business, MaryJane’s Attic, is appealing the decision.

Oregon State Representative Peter Buckley (D-Ashland) successfully co-sponsored the bill that made medical marijuana dispensaries legal in Oregon. Selling, buying, or consuming marijuana is still illegal under federal law. Buckley says the state law, which goes into effect next March, will trump Medford’s city ordinance.

GUESTS:

Chris Corcoran: Medford City Councilor

Peter Buckley: Oregon state representative (D-Ashland) and co-chair of the Joint Ways and Means Committee